Introduction
Kitchens with metal cabinets offer a sleek, modern look that can really stand out in any home. While metal cabinets make a stylish statement, decorating a kitchen with all metal can be tricky. Metal has a very sterile, industrial feel that may come across as cold or uninviting if not balanced properly. The good news is there are many ways to bring warmth, texture and personality to a kitchen with metal cabinets. Taking the time to choose the right metal finishes, countertops, backsplashes, appliances and accessories can result in a kitchen that is both contemporary and cozy.
In this comprehensive guide, we will provide tips, ideas and inspiration for beautifully decorating a kitchen with metal cabinets. From mixing metals and finishes to choosing countertops and hardware, we will cover all the key elements for designing a stylish, functional metal kitchen that has unique character and appeal. Read on for our top advice on how to make metal cabinetry look its best while creating a space your family and friends will love spending time in.
Choosing Metal Cabinet Finishes
The first step in decorating with metal cabinets is selecting the right finish for your style and kitchen aesthetic. Metal cabinetry comes in a range of finishes from brushed stainless steel to antique bronze. Choosing a finish that complements your overall vision for the kitchen is important in making the space cohesive and pulled together. Here are some of the most popular options for metal cabinet finishes and how to decorate with each:
Brushed Stainless Steel
Brushed stainless steel has a modern, industrial look and feel. It pairs well with chrome hardware and white or gray color schemes. To keep stainless steel kitchen cabinets looking bright and new, consider adding pops of color through the backsplash tile or kitchen accessories. Blue, green and yellow create a vibrant contrast against the silvery glean of brushed stainless steel.
Oil-Rubbed Bronze
The dark, aged look of oil-rubbed bronze metal finish brings a lovely warmth and rustic feel to a kitchen. For decorating with bronze cabinets, stick with natural elements such as stone or wood countertops, textured tile backsplashes and decorative pots displayed on open shelving. Oil-rubbed bronze also pairs nicely with glass pendant lights and antique hardware.
Matte Black
Nothing says modern like matte black metal cabinets. The deep, dark color provides a blank canvas to build your kitchen decor around. Consider glossy black countertops and gold or brass accents and hardware to create a glamorous look. Or go for an edgy, industrial feel with exposed brick walls and concrete floors to contrast with matte black cabinets.
Antique Nickel
Antique nickel strikes a balance between traditional and contemporary for a versatile metal cabinet finish. Often favored in transitional kitchens, antique nickel hardware and fixtures provide a nice complement.Earth tones like beige, cream and brown work well for countertops and walls paired with antique nickel. You can also warm up the look with touches of wood accents and pendant lighting.
Copper
Copper cabinetry makes for an eye-catching, bold statement in any kitchen. The vibrant, shiny finish pairs perfectly with other metallics like gold and rose gold. Consider white, gray or black countertops to offset the warmth of the copper finish. A neutral color scheme allows the metal cabinets to truly stand out.
Mixing Metals
While sticking with one dominant metal finish can provide a cohesive look, mixing metals is a big trend in kitchen design. Combining finishes like oil-rubbed bronze, stainless steel and antique brass can add visual interest. Just be sure to follow the rule of choosing finishes in the same color family. For example, bronze hardware pairs better with silver than gold. Take care to find the right balance so the space doesn’t feel too chaotic.
Selecting Countertops
The countertop material you choose will make a major impact on the decor of your metal cabinets. With so many options from quartz and stone to laminate and concrete, how do you choose? The key is finding a countertop that provides contrast and complements the finish of your cabinets. Here are some of our top countertop recommendations for pairings with metal cabinetry:
Quartz
Quartz countertops are one of the most popular options because of their durability, low maintenance, and stylish appearance. For metal cabinets, opt for a quartz with some veining or pattern as opposed to a solid color for visual interest. Bianco Carrara and Calcatta Gold are two quartz styles that pair beautifully with darker metal finishes.
Marble
For a luxurious look, marble countertops provide an elegant contrast to metal cabinets. The gray veins and white background of many marble varieties work with any cabinetry finish from stainless steel to oil-rubbed bronze. As a bonus, marble’s cool surface helps balance warmer metal tones. Just keep in mind marble requires more maintenance than other stones.
Concrete
The industrial vibe of concrete makes it the perfect match for stainless steel, black or bronze metal cabinetry. Concrete stains that mimic natural stones like marble, granite and limestone add visual appeal. Customize your concrete counters by embedding metal embellishments that match your cabinets for a cohesive look.
Butcher Block
For a kitchen with warmer metal finishes like copper or oil-rubbed bronze, butcher block counters make an attractive pairing. Opt for a lighter wood tone like maple so the countertop doesn’t clash with the metal. Adding richly-grained butcher block provides natural contrast and brings some needed wood elements into the space.
Laminate
On a tight budget? Laminate countertops offer an affordable option without sacrificing style. Matte black, white and gray laminates pair nicely with any metal finish. Or go bold with laminates that mimic stone patterns or solid colors like navy blue. Just keep in mind laminate can easily scratch and stain over time.
Selecting Backsplash Tile
Another key element in decorating a kitchen with metal cabinets is the backsplash. While tile is the most common backsplash choice, don’t feel limited to just ceramic or porcelain. Get creative with materials like metal, glass, stone, wood or even wallpaper. Whichever backsplash you select, it should enhance your cabinets rather than compete for attention.
Metal Backsplash
For a seamless look, choosing a metal backsplash is a great option with steel, bronze or other metal cabinetry. Stainless steel, copper, brass and nickel tiles or sheets coordinate beautifully. Go for the same finish as your cabinets or mix metals for contrast. Just be aware metal backsplashes conduct heat and sound more than other materials.
Glass Tile
From translucent white to multi-colored options, glass tile provides depth and radiance against metal cabinets. The sleek, smooth finish plays up the modern appeal. Opt for glossy glass with stainless steel or matte black cabinets for stylish contrast. Crackled glass tile works well with oil-rubbed bronze and other warmer metals too.
Stone Tile
Granite, marble, travertine and slate backsplashes pair nicely with metal cabinetry for a natural yet sophisticated look. Stone adds subtle variation, texture and pattern. For a spacious stone look, try large-format porcelain tile mimicking natural stone grains and colors.
Wood Backsplash
Reclaimed wood brings rustic charm to a kitchen with bronze, copper or black metal cabinetry. Use wood planks or 3D tiles for a textured look. Wood backsplashes infuse warmth and prevent an all-metal space from feeling too sterile.
Wallpaper
Don’t overlook wallpaper as a unique metal kitchen backsplash alternative. From faux-textures like brick and concrete to floral and geometric patterns, choices abound. Use wallpaper sparingly above a backsplash border or behind a cooktop to highlight your style. Just ensure any wallpaper you choose is wear-resistant and washable.
Choosing Kitchen Appliances
Appliances make a big impact on the overall kitchen decor, so select carefully with your metal cabinets in mind. Stainless steel appliances pair gorgeously with similar cabinet finishes. But you can also create an eclectic look by mixing appliance finishes and colors. Keep these appliance decor tips in mind:
- Black stainless appliances deliver a modern edge alongside dark metal cabinets.
- Vintage-style appliances in unique colors like red, blue or yellow provide a cheerful contrast to serious metal cabinetry.
- For a cohesive transitional look, select appliances finished to match warmer metal cabinets, like antique copper or oil-rubbed bronze.
- Built-in appliances that blend seamlessly with cabinetry maintain a sleek, uncluttered appearance.
- Panel-ready appliances that accept custom cabinetry fronts help appliances disappear into your design.
No matter your appliance choices, select styles with clean lines that complement your metal cabinets. Avoid heavily styled appliances that compete too much for attention.
Choosing Kitchen Hardware
Hardware plays a critical role in finishing the look of your metal kitchen. Matching the color and finish of your cabinet hardware to the overall decor is the key to pulling your design together. Here are some guidelines for selecting hardware:
- Stainless steel cabinets look best with polished chrome, stainless, nickel or aluminum hardware for matching shine and luster.
- Unlacquered brass provides a lovely contrast to black or white metal cabinetry.
- Graphite or black hardware enhances the modern vibe of matte black metal cabinets.
- Vintage-style cup pulls in copper, brass or bronze work well with warmer metal finishes.
- Don’t overlook glass knobs and pulls for a sleek accent on contemporary cabinets.
Cabinet hardware gives you an opportunity to inject other metal tones into your kitchen. Mixing modern brushed nickel pulls with traditional bronze knobs can give eclectic flair. Just keep combinations cohesive.
Adding Warmth With Wood
The biggest challenge when decorating an all-metal kitchen is preventing it from feeling cold and sterile. Injecting wood elements is key to making the space warmer and more inviting.
-Floating wood shelves mounted on walls or glass cabinet fronts soften metal’s hard edges.
-Try wood-look flooring such as hardwood or vinyl plank instead of tile.
- warmth with wooden bar stools, kitchen carts, cutting boards and tray ceilings.
- Wood ranges hoods and butcher block countertops bring natural texture.
Aim for lighter wood tones that won’t clash with your cabinet finish. Aged, weathered or whitewashed wood also complements metal nicely. Don’t overdo it though—you want the cabinets to remain the focus.
Incorporating Color and Contrast
Color and contrast help make all-metal kitchens feel more personal and livable. But limit colorful accents to items you can easily swap out down the road. Here are some ways to tastefully add color:
- Vibrant glass or ceramic kitchenware provide pops of color when displayed in glass-front cabinets or shelving.
- Paint interior cabinets in a contrasting hue to mix up your metal palette.
- Colorful light fixtures like vintage pendants inject more personality into serious cabinetry.
- Patterned rugs with subtle colors can offset strong metal finishes.
- Add botanical influence with fresh flowers and plants. Greens soften metallic shine.
Use color in moderation as too much risks clashing with or overwhelming your cabinets. Focus on big impact items like an island or range hood to anchor the color and pull the whole room together.
Incorporating Texture and Patterns
Adding layers of texture and pattern keeps a metal kitchen feeling warm and inviting versus stark. Think beyond just countertops and backsplashes when planning in texture.
- Window treatments like textured drapes or Roman shades provide coziness.
- Natural fiber rugs with woven texture complement hard surfaces.
- Ceramic garden stools or decorative vases bring in global pattern.
- Display collectibles like vintage cutting boards or edged serving trays.
- Try glass tile backsplashes with ombre or etched effects.
- Panel accent walls with 3D tiles or wallpaper with raised textures.
Vary textures and gloss levels among your decorative accents. The idea is to create depth and visual interest against the sleek metal cabinetry.
Maximizing Lighting
Proper lighting is important in any kitchen but especially with reflective metal cabinets. Combine multiple lighting sources for comfort and function.
- Pendant lights or track lighting ensure adequate task lighting over workstations.
- Accent lighting under cabinets illuminates counters and provides ambiance.
- Recessed can lighting paired with dimmers builds adaptable general lighting.
- Light interior cabinets with LED cabinet lighting for display and visibility.
- Natural light is best–maximize windows or skylights if possible.
Incorporating lighting around the kitchen perimeter prevents shadows and brightens the space. Install dimmers to adjust light levels as needed for any mood or activity.
Stylish Metal Kitchen Inspiration
Now that we’ve covered the key tips for decorating with metal cabinets, let’s look at some beautiful kitchens for inspiration. From industrial chic to modern luxury, the examples below illustrate how metal cabinetry can be customized to match any style.
Industrial Metal Kitchen
Exposed brick, black steel cabinets, concrete counters and pendant lighting create an edgy, urban vibe. The wood barstools and flooring provide natural contrast to the industrial metal elements.
Contemporary Gray and White
The glossy white quartz island and counters allow the brushed stainless cabinets to take center stage. Gray stone backsplash tile and barstools harmonize beautifully.
Sophisticated Mix of Metals
Antique brass hardware and oil-rubbed bronze range hood bring warmth to balance the cool stainless appliances and cabinetry. Combining metal finishes makes the style elegant yet eclectic.
Vintage Minimalist
Retro mint green Smeg appliances and brass accents bring out the richness of the dark walnut cabinetry. The complementary metals and wood pairings give vintage charm.
Luxury Black and Gold
The stunning black marbled island, bold brass pendants and gold finishes create a swanky vibe against the matte black cabinets. Dramatic yet polished and elegant.
Rustic Copper Farmhouse
Aged copper farmhouse sinks, wooden counters and backsplash planks make the copper cabinetry shine. The mix of materials gives cozy vintage character.
No matter your preferred style, metal cabinets can look gorgeous when thoughtfully composed with the right decor elements. Use the tips in this guide to turn your metal kitchen into a warm, inviting space your family and friends will flock to.
Frequently Asked Questions About Decorating With Metal Cabinets
What color walls go best with metal kitchen cabinets?
Neutral wall colors like white, beige, gray and even black allow metal cabinets to take center stage. Light tones make the space feel open and airy while darker shades highlight metallic finishes.
What flooring works with metal cabinets?
Tiles, concrete, hardwoods and luxury vinyl plank flooring complement most metal cabinet finishes. Look for wood-look options for warmth or matching colors like grey wood or white marble patterns.
Do metal cabinets dent easily?
Quality metal cabinets are quite durable and resistant to dents with careful use. Opt for thicker 18+ gauge steel or aluminum construction. Apply cabinet bumpers to protect vulnerable corners. Avoid hammering or leaning heavy objects directly against metal fronts.
Are metal cabinets expensive?
Metal kitchen cabinets range widely in cost. Stamped aluminum runs $75-$250 per linear foot. Stainless steel costs $300-$500 per linear foot. Copper and bronze cabinets are premium options priced $600+ per linear foot installed.
What accessories look good with metal cabinets?
Warm metals like brass, gold and copper make stylish metal cabinet accessories. Also incorporate natural textures like wood cutting boards, woven baskets, stoneware canisters, ceramic vases and leather furniture.
How do you soften the look of metal cabinets?
Warm lighting, wood accents, glass cabinet fronts, neutral walls and eco-friendly textures prevent metal from looking too cold. Adding living greenery and flowers also helps soften metallic shine.
Conclusion
Kitchens with metal cabinets make a spectacular style statement. By thoughtfully planning finishes, accents and decor elements you can design a stunning and inviting kitchen that highlights your beautiful metal cabinetry. Use the tips and ideas in this guide to create a comfortable, functional space that blends warmth and contemporary appeal. With smart decor choices you can enjoy the sleek beauty of metal cabinets for years to come.